In a move that expands its partnership with the two-year college system, Samford University has streamlined the path for Gadsden State Community College transfer students to pursue a bachelor’s degree.

“Higher education is all about serving the students today who will lead the achievements of tomorrow,” said Dr. Beck A. Taylor, president of Samford University. “This agreement reflects our commitment to educational excellence for students who begin their journey at Gadsden State and continue through Samford.”

Following a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), Gadsden State students will be guaranteed admission to Samford upon meeting university requirements. Samford committed to providing transfer pathways, pre-transfer advising and scholarships to support the transition.

The partnership means Samford will accept credits for students who completed a traditionally non-transferable technical degree at Gadsden State. It also encourages reverse transfer agreements, in which students who transfer before graduating from Gadsden State can complete their associate degree at Samford.

The MOU builds upon longstanding state legislation, which requires that only core credit classes completed at Alabama’s two-year colleges transfer to the state’s public four-year colleges and universities.

“Gadsden State is committed to developing every avenue with our four-year partners that ensures and enhances our students’ experiences for success, and this MOU is a significant step in expanding those opportunities,” said Dr. Kathy L. Murphy, president of Gadsden State. “We are proud our students will have the support and resources both at the two-year level and the four-year level to achieve their educational and career goals.”

This follows a first-of-its-kind agreement formalized in June between Samford and Jefferson State Community College. Samford agreed to introduce a “Jeff State Transfer Scholarship,” offering $2,000 for every 24 credit hours taken over three semesters to all admitted regular, full-time transfer students.

“Since the development of Samford’s strategic plan, Fidelitas, we have focused even more on the creation of new, expanded, and revised academic programs that enhance our existing offerings and meet the needs of new student populations,” Taylor said.